I'm currently getting ready to teach Kodee his next new command, "heel." He already walks fairly nicely on a leash, and I've had him always walk on my left side since I got him at 7 weeks old, so that is pretty much automatic for him (unless we're just wandering around in the yard for a potty break.) He is usually pretty good (but not perfect) at not pulling. He will eventually be a therapy dog, if things go right. It isn't a requirement, but it would be nice, if I could teach him a more formal heel. I'd like him to always walk on a loose lead, shoulder about even w/my left knee, (keeping in position during changes in direction, of course), and sit automatically upon halting.

I just re-watched the "Walking on a Leash" segment of the Leerburg Basic Obedience DVD, but it covers more casual walking on leash for pets. We have that down pretty well, but I don't know where to find more info on the more formal heel. Keep in mind, it's doesn't have to be precise like for competition, but I'd like to be more formal than just casual walking on a loose lead. Partly for ease of walking w/Kodee in public places, tight hallways, etc, and partly b/c I think it would just be a fun challenge to teach him this.

Can anyone tell me the best way to train this? Thanks!

http://www.leerburg.com/304.htm

Good stuff, even if you're not going to compete.

Here are some threads I bookmarked with suggestions on heeling:

http://leerburg.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/ubb/showflat/Number/154006/page/0/fpart/1

http://www.leerburg.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/ubb/showflat/Number/4143920/site_id/1#import

http://www.leerburg.com/forums/ubbthreads.php/ubb/showflat/Number/144816/page/0/fpart/1

http://www.barkbytes.com/training/heel.htm

I didn't reread each one so hopefully one of these will be helpful.

Wow - thanks for all the links, ladies! They'll be a huge help!!!